Waimoku Falls is a statuesque waterfall featuring a 400-foot plunge off a cliff faced wall in the heart of the Kipahulu (Coastal) District of Haleakala National Park.
It is without a doubt the #1 attraction in this section of Haleakala. I highly recommend everyone taking time to come visit this stunning landmark.
Besides making the 55-mile drive (if you're staying in the town of Kahului) along adventurous Hana Highway to arrive here in the Kipahulu area...you also must hike 2 miles along Pipiwai Trail to be precisely standing in front of Waimoku Falls.
The Pipiwai Trail wasn't too difficult to trek. In fact, I found the surroundings and overall setting to be very pleasant. It was as if I was situated within one giant rain forest, immersed by plenty of bamboo trees.
Plus, for the 2 miles (each way) it was pretty humid outside and sort of refreshing (in my opinion) to work up a good sweat before finally getting to witness such an inspiring waterfall. The freefalling appearance initially took my breathe away when I first approached it.
My only maybe slight, slight disappointment with the experience was eventually confronting a sign where it specifically stated you cannot pass or enter any further than an exact point.
And...unfortunately, I wasn't able to fully capture (with my camera) Waimoku Falls touching the bottom base pool of water for where it splashed down into.
The sign read..."DO NOT PASS THIS POINT. FATALITIES HAVE OCCURRED. VIOLATING A CLOSURE - $100 FINE".
Oh well, still, it was plenty good enough to view Waimoku Falls from a short distance away. You're still able to see about 4/5's - 5/6's of the entire cascading waterfall drop.
Some extra details....
- I visited in the morning time back in the middle of March, 2022 and it was a worthwhile time to come make the 2-mile trek to the falls.
The sun was at my back when I finally reached Waimoku Falls, it allowed for terrific picture moments with the sun reflecting beautifully upon the lush green tropical forest.
- Interestingly, this Kipahulu District of Haleakala NP actually closes their gates at 5pm daily, and so they leave a visible sign at the trailhead saying starting at 3pm, it's the last time of the day for you to begin the Pipiwai Hike (allowing for 2 hours to reach Waimoku Falls and also returning to the parking lot).
So, overall, it's just best to arrive here and see Waimoku Falls in the early part of the day.
- Although almost everyone explores around the Summit District of Haleakala, if this is your first time coming to Waimoku Falls or visiting this Kipahulu section...they will charge you $30 entrance fee at the gate.
- While here in the area...make sure to stop at Wailua Falls located just 3 miles down the road. It's a quick roadside stop featuring another fantastic waterfall. And plus at Wailua Falls you can swim and cool off at the base of the waters, just not here at Waimoku Falls.
- Finally, while in this Kipahulu part of the park when returning from Pipiwai Trail...I'd suggest easily and efficiently taking the 1/2-mile Kuloa Point/Trail for outstanding coastal views from the edge of the island of Maui.
And along this Kuloa Trail you'll stand high above the Pools of Ohe'o...a prime opportunity for looking down on yet another stunning waterfall setting.
Waimoku Falls was one of the best aspects from my Haleakala National Park experience. I couldn't have been happier for the chance to hike the pleasant/charming Pipiwai Trail while then taking time to admire such an impressive 400-foot plunge.
It only confirmed how fond I am of waterfalls. read more